Moving to the Amana Colonies

James Tarrant, grew up in Brooklyn, New York and went to school in Washington D.C. He is packing up his bags this March and moving to the Amana Colonies to perform at the Old Creamery Theatre!

We interviewed him about what it was like to move from the big city life of New York and Washington D.C. to the Amana Colonies. Check out what he had so say about his move to the Midwest!

Where are you from?

I grew up in Brooklyn, NY and went to college in Washington, DC.

How did you hear about the Old Creamery Theatre?

I attended UPTAs (United Professional Theatre Auditions) for the first time in February of 2014, and learned about the company for the first time at the auditions. This year, I was fortunate enough to get a callback and learn more about the company from Sean, Jackie, and Keegan.

What made you want to work for the Old Creamery Theatre?

From the minute I walked into the room for my callback, I was at ease talking to Sean and Keegan. It was a good atmosphere, and I was able to perform and talk about my future in theatre openly in a warm environment. The possibility to learn and grow in the theatre world caught my attention right away, and made Old Creamery my top choice of places to work.

What excites you most about moving to Iowa?

I’m completely a city boy; I grew up going into the city (Manhattan) all the time, then moved to DC, and then worked in Orlando, FL. I’ve never lived in a smaller area, or an area that’s known for it’s Midwestern friendliness. It will be nice to be somewhere where you aren’t just another face in a sea of thousands.

What do you know about the Amana Colonies? Anything you’re particularly looking forward to about joining the community?

I will admit, I cheated a bit before answering this question and reread the “Amana Colonies” website. I was surprised to learn the history of the German Pietists, especially being from New York (where they were first located). Besides performing for Old Creamery Theatre, one of the things I’m most looking forward to with joining the community is checking out Millstream Brewing Company. I’ve never been to an actual brewery, and I think it would be interesting to experience one.

Are you driving or flying? Explain why?

I am driving my lovely car, because I love getting around places on my own. I got my driver’s license late (at age 19), and don’t know how I survived without one. Plus, I know I’m going to want to explore Iowa while I’m living there, so I’d love to be able to take any off days I have to explore Amana or other towns in Iowa.